Joe L. Perez, 97, of Key West, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on June 15, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. Joe was born on January 6, 1929, in Tampa, Florida, to Delio and Alejandrina Perez. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Key West, where Joe was raised and spent the remainder of his life. Deeply rooted in the island community he loved, Joe built a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and service. Joe worked as an air conditioning and refrigeration mechanic and supervisor for Civil Service at Boca Chica Naval Air Station. Outside of work, he enjoyed spending time on the golf course with his lifelong friends and pursuing his passions for fishing and lobstering in the waters of the Florida Keys. He also cherished traveling the world with his beloved wife, Joyce. On a pilgrimage to Ireland, Joe was inspired to give his life to Christ and found his faith in the Catholic Church. This led to years of service within the Church, where he faithfully served his community through volunteering at St. Mary's Soup Kitchen, helping provide meals and comfort to those in need. Joe is survived by his sons, Jesse Perez (Dina) and Joseph Perez (Lourdes), and his daughter, Misty Witham. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jesse Perez Jr. (Barbara), Trina Vichot (Ricky), Amy Pettingill, Brittany Witham, and Jazlynn Perez (Seth); and his great-grandchildren, Lily, Stella, Mackenzie, Janelle, Javian, and Selena. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce Perez, and two children, Jody Perez and Joli Perez. Those who knew Joe will remember his quick wit, contagious sense of humor, and remarkable ability to make everyone around him laugh. He never met a stranger and had a gift for bringing people together. He loved spending time with his family and friends, caring for those he loved, and serving others whenever he could. Whether he was dancing, telling a joke, lending a helping hand, or simply enjoying the company of those around him, Joe was often the life of the party. His kindness, generosity, and joyful spirit touched countless lives and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to his devoted caregiver, Anesta Sandaeire, and to hospice nurses Teresa and Kate for their exceptional care, compassion, and support during Joe's final days. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on June 20, 2026, at the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea in Key West. Burial will follow at Key West Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held afterward at the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to SOS Food Pantry, 5640 Maloney Avenue, Key West, Florida 33040 or The Basilica School, 700 Truman Avenue, Key West, Florida 33040. Joe's legacy of faith, laughter, generosity, and love will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.